CN102724907A - Power supply system and medical capsule device mounted with same - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is a power generation system that does not restrict patient's area of activity, is harmless to a living body, and can obtain a sufficient amount of electric power in the stomach or bowel, and also is provided a disposable medical capsule device that is mounted with the power generation system and does not need to be collected after being used. The power generation system is mounted in the capsule device, includes at least two electrodes or a pair of electrodes consisting of an aluminum electrode and a catalyst-supported carbon electrode which are provided on the outer wall surface of the capsule main body, is immersed in an electrolyte solution consisting of stomach fluid or bowel fluid to generate electricity, and supplies the power supply to a constituent region in the capsule device.

Description

Power-supply system and the medical capsule apparatus that carries this power-supply system

Technical field

The present invention relates to swallow in the body type medical capsule apparatus, it carries to use and is present in the power-supply system that intravital digestive appartus content generates electricity, and when in vivo flowing down, the information around carrying out detects and medical treatment.

Background technology

In recent years, the known various medical capsule apparatus that the capsule shape of forming is arranged.As this capsule apparatus, representational capsule endoscope is installed image mechanism and battery in capsule, takes with battery actuated camera structure.Because the capacity of built-in battery can limit the photography number, and the importing of limiting drive means.And the general compact battery that uses can not be discarded as simple refuse difficult to burn, and therefore after being discharged to external the recovery, it is discarded to take out cell classification from capsule endoscope.

As this countermeasure, following structure has been proposed also: do not use battery and in capsule apparatus assembling electricity generation system or electric power system, and after input,, in capsule apparatus, produce electric energy and come it is driven from vitro sending light, electric wave or electromagnetic wave etc.For example, in TOHKEMY 2001-231187 communique, proposed through shining the system that infrared light is supplied power to medical capsule apparatus from external.In addition, in japanese kokai publication hei 9-327447 communique, also proposed in capsule apparatus, to install generator Structure.

And, in TOHKEMY 2007-200739 communique, the technology of utilizing gastric portion solution to generate electricity as electrolyte (electrolyte) has been proposed also.

Summary of the invention

As above-mentioned patent documentation 1, the electric power system in the past that produces power supply from external reception light or electric energy must rest in the scope of range of exposures or the action of a magnetic field of light source before the inspection of accomplishing the patient, significant limitation patient's motion.

In addition, in the electricity generation system of utilizing the patient's body motion that patent documentation 2 proposes, it is also known for electret vibrating power-generation etc.But if only be shooting, then generated energy is enough, thereby but in the high image qualityization of capsular further miniaturization, image and carry multi-functional performance power consumption and become under the big situation, generated energy maybe be not enough.

And, in patent documentation 3, proposed the gastric acid generating pond of gastric portion solution, but disclosed technology is limited to the generating in the gastric portion as electrolyte.But, utilize the inspection of medical capsule apparatus to be not limited to stomach, demand is also higher in the inspection of duodenum and small intestinal.

In addition, the electrodes use in the gastric acid generating pond that in patent documentation 3, proposes zinc, can not discard as general rubbish, and need reclaim the back classification with likewise interim in the past.The sorting operations that is used to take out this battery expends more manpower and cost.And, used the battery of kind electrode can produce polarization, be that anode produces bubble hydrogen, if therefore do not remove this bubble then electromotive force can reduce.The gastric acid generating pond that is proposed is to make electrode relatively be accommodated in the intravital structure of shell, therefore considers Digestive system, is the difficult and inadequate situation of diffusion of electrolyte, and be difficult to remove the bubble that is produced.Therefore, electromotive force may reduce.

Therefore; The object of the present invention is to provide and swallow the type medical capsule apparatus in a kind of body; It is the built-in generating pond that can access enough generated energy in the stomach of the live body that is flowed down or duodenum, large intestine and small intestinal, and can not need after use throwaways with reclaiming.

Be used to solve the means of problem

In order to achieve the above object, the power-supply system according to embodiment of the present invention possesses: the capsule with acid proof watertight; At least one electrode pair, it is provided in capsule outer walls and shows out, is made up of the different parts with standard electrode potential difference; And power supply unit, it is configured in the said capsule, is connected with said electrode pair, takes out and provide the power supply that is sent, and said power-supply system constitutes the voltaic cell of said digestive appartus content as electrolyte solution.

In addition, the medical capsule apparatus of the lift-launch power-supply system of embodiment possesses: the capsule with acid proof watertight; Power-supply system; It possesses at least one electrode pair and power supply unit, and this at least one electrode pair is provided in capsule outer walls and shows out, is made up of two kinds of different parts with standard electrode potential difference; This power supply unit is connected with this electrode pair, takes out the power supply and the output of being sent; Camera lens, it makes the photography target imaging; A plurality of light-emitting components, it is used for the illumination photography visual field; Image sensor, it carries out opto-electronic conversion to the optical image that said camera lens became, and generates picture signal; Handling part, it implements treatment for correcting to the picture signal that generates through said optical pickocff, converts the information signal that radio communication is used into; And antenna, it will be issued to the outside from the information signal of said handling part.

According to the present invention, can provide and swallow the type medical capsule apparatus in a kind of body, the built-in generating pond that can access enough generated energy in its stomach, large intestine and the small intestinal at the live body that is flowed down, and can not need after use throwaway with reclaiming.

Description of drawings

Figure 1A is the figure of surface structure that the medical capsule apparatus of the 1st embodiment of the present invention is shown.

Figure 1B is the figure of cross section structure that illustrates along the capsule apparatus of the A-A direction of figure A.

Fig. 2 is the figure that the schematic structure of the power-supply system that capsule apparatus carries is shown.

Fig. 3 is the figure that illustrates along the cross sectional shape of the electrode of the 1st variation of the 1st embodiment of the A-A direction of Figure 1A.

Fig. 4 is the figure that illustrates along the cross sectional shape of the electrode of the 2nd variation of the 1st embodiment of the A-A direction of Figure 1A.

Fig. 5 A is the figure of surface structure of capsule apparatus that the 3rd variation of the 1st embodiment is shown.

Fig. 5 B is the figure that illustrates along the cross section structure of the electrode of the B-B direction of Fig. 5 A.

Fig. 6 is the figure that the cross section structure of the power-supply system in the capsule apparatus of the 4th variation of the 1st embodiment is shown.

Fig. 7 is illustrated in the figure that is provided with the structure of temperature sensor in the electrode of power-supply system of the 5th variation of the 1st embodiment.

Fig. 8 is the figure of surface structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 2nd embodiment is shown.

Fig. 9 is the figure of cross section structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 3rd embodiment is shown.

Figure 10 is the figure of internal structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 4th embodiment is shown.

Figure 11 is the figure of internal structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 5th embodiment is shown.

Figure 12 is the figure of internal structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 6th embodiment is shown.

Figure 13 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 7th embodiment is shown.

Figure 14 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generating voltage in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 7th embodiment is shown.

Figure 15 is electrode area and the figure of the relation between the generation current that illustrates in the power-supply system of the 7th embodiment.

Figure 16 be illustrate aluminum electrode and Pt electrode electrode pair with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time figure as comparative example.

Figure 17 be illustrate aluminum electrode and Pt electrode electrode pair with respect to the characteristic of the generating voltage in elapsed time figure as comparative example.

Figure 18 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 8th embodiment is shown.

Figure 19 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time of power-supply system that the variation of the 8th embodiment is shown.

Figure 20 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 9th embodiment is shown.

Figure 21 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 10th embodiment is shown.

Figure 22 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the power-supply system of the 11st embodiment is shown.

Figure 23 is the figure of internal structure of capsule apparatus that the lift-launch power-supply system of the 12nd embodiment is shown.

Figure 24 A is the figure of an example that the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode on the capsule body of the power-supply system that is formed on the 12nd embodiment is shown.

Figure 24 B illustrates the then figure of an example of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 24 A.

Figure 24 C illustrates the then figure of an example of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 24 B.

Figure 24 D illustrates the then figure of an example of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 24 C.

Figure 25 A is another routine figure that the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode in the power-supply system of the 12nd embodiment is shown.

Figure 25 B illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 A.

Figure 25 C illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 B.

Figure 25 D illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 C.

Figure 25 E illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 D.

Figure 25 F illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 E.

Figure 25 G illustrates then another routine figure of the manufacturing process of the stepped construction electrode of Figure 25 F.

Figure 26 be illustrate the 1st embodiment with the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generated energy of time of simulated gastric fluid as the battery of electrolyte.

Figure 27 be illustrate the 1st embodiment with the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generated energy of time of simulated intestinal fluid as the battery of electrolyte.

The specific embodiment

Below, the embodiment that present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying.

[the 1st embodiment]

The notion of power-supply system of the present invention at first, is described.Figure 1A is the figure that swallows the surface structure of type medical capsule apparatus (below be called capsule apparatus) in the body of putting into intravital state of the 1st embodiment of the present invention.Figure 1B is the figure that illustrates along the cross section structure of the capsule apparatus of the A-A direction of Figure 1A.In addition, Fig. 2 is the figure that the schematic structure of power-supply system is shown.Fig. 3 shows along the cross sectional shape of the electrode of the 1st variation of the A-A direction of Figure 1A.

Below in explanation, the digestive appartus content is meant all materials in the digestive appartus that are included in as electrolyte or electrolyte performance function.Particularly, be from digestive appartus secretions such as excretory saliva such as mouth, harmonization of the stomach intestinal and gastric juice, perhaps from the bodily waste of digestive appartus and from the mixture of the material of mouth and nose picked-up.

The shape that can easily swallow when as long as the capsule apparatus shown in Figure 1A 1 forms in putting into live body 8.For example, as comprise the capsule dosing etc. of medicament, suppose the bag shape that front and back are rounded.Certainly, in addition, can also easily use ball shape or circular plate shape etc. according to being assembled into inner device.

In this embodiment, capsule body 5 two is divided into the place ahead capsule 5a and rear capsule 5b, and their watertight ground is carried out the bonding capsule body 5 that constitutes.At least capsule 5a in the place ahead forms through the transparent material as window.The resin material that these capsule positions have for example adopted the acid to digestive appartus secretions 7 grades to have patience.In addition, there is no need to constitute with same parts whole, can use transparent resin parts (window part) and miscellaneous part for example the combination of various different parts such as ceramic component constitute.

Then, the power-supply system that is arranged in the capsule apparatus 1 is described.

Power-supply system is by constituting with lower component: be arranged on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5 and all expose after at least two electrodes 2,3 that constitute by the material different metallic stated; And power supply unit 6, it utilizes the electromotive force that is produced by these electrodes 2,3 to generate the power supply of predetermined constant voltage.Be in digestive appartus content 7 on every side as electrolyte if these electrodes 2,3 use, then become the known battery structure that is known as voltaic cell.Power supply unit 6 uses at the electrode that utilizes this voltaic cell 2, the electromotive force that produces between 3, to each not shown drive division of capsule apparatus 1 power supply is provided.

Generally speaking, the electromotive force of voltaic cell is according to the difference decision of the standard electrode potential of these the two kinds electrodes that are made up of different metallic.In embodiments of the present invention, selection is as the electrode 2 of aluminum (also comprising aluminium alloy) conduct the becoming negative electrode of amphoteric metal.This is because as negative electrode, alkali metal or alkaline-earth metal are proper; But owing to put in the body; So must be less to the influence that live body produces, in addition, the inside that is employed in tart stomach is relatively good with the electrode that can both generate electricity in the duodenum inside of alkalescence.

On the other hand, even anode 3 uses the electrode of standard electrode potentials greater than hydrogen, the reaction that actual electrode reaction neither electrode self, overriding is hydrionic reduction reaction in the electrode.Therefore, as the material of anodic electrode 3 so long as standard electrode potential greater than the material of hydrogen, does not then need special qualification.But if consider intravital safety, what then relatively be fit to is noble metal or carbon electrodes such as platinum, gold, silver.The material with carbon element that is used for carbon electrode is not as long as the electric conductivity height then needs special qualification; But, can adopt with acetylene carbon black or section's qin carbon black (trade name: ラ イ オ Application) be synthetic, graphite, carbon fiber, CNT or their mixture of electrical conductivity Carbon black, carbon black and the amorphous carbon of representative as object lesson.

In addition, the area of electrode 2 and electrode 3 is not necessarily identical, and for example electrode 2 can be bigger than the area of electrode 3.And in this embodiment; In Figure 1A, will be from the top shape of observed electrode 2,3 be made as rectangle, but be not limited thereto certainly; Can be any in circular, oval, abnormity, polygon and the triangle, can also make up these shapes and form.In addition, can also be certain pattern, for example electrode 2,3 is formed comb form, make mutual broach devices spaced apart mesh.

The manufacturing approach of these electrodes 2,3 can be used general film technique.For example, as the dry method film technique of in semiconductor fabrication, using, can use evaporation film-forming, spatter film forming, ECR film forming or CVD film forming etc. simply.In addition, as the wet method film technique, can use the plating film forming.In addition, if electrode is a carbon electrode, then for example can form through the printing of having used the conductivity carbon black ink.In addition, can not be formed directly on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5, and after having formed electrode in addition, bond on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5.As its bonding agent, preferably be used for the bonding agent of medical treatment.

The reduction of the electromotive force that voltaic cell existence polarization as stated,, the bubble hydrogen that promptly produces at anode cause.In order to prevent this polarization; In embodiments of the present invention, shown in Figure 1A, the structure of the outer wall surface forming electrode 2,3 through being employed in capsule apparatus 1; Utilize flowing down of capsule apparatus to prevent that the solution of electrode surface from stopping, and removes the bubble hydrogen attached to electrode surface rapidly.In addition, as method in the past, known have on electrode 3 method of scattering battery depolarizer or use the method that is not easy to cause polar platinum etc.But preferably do not use battery depolarizer in vivo.In addition, the anti-polarization effect of platinum electrode is also insufficient.

In addition; Electrode 2,3 is as long as the wall at medical capsule apparatus 1 exposes when generating; Then generating does not have obstacle; Therefore luffer boards are set on electrode when not generating electricity, perhaps as the back is said, cover with the thin film of processing by digestible material that is used for electrode protection, no problem fully on function.

In addition, power supply unit 6 is general circuit structures, for example is amplifying circuit and constant voltage circuit (or constant-current circuit) are integrated into an integrated circuit on the chip.In addition, stable in order to make output, can be at the capacitor (electric charge accumulation element) of input side configuration as buffer performance function.

Like Figure 26 and shown in Figure 27, use simulated gastric fluid and simulated intestinal fluid to verify actual generated energy.In the beaker of glass, pour simulated gastric fluid and the simulated intestinal fluid of 10m into, dipping 1cm ²The aluminum electrode and the 0.02cm of area ²The Pt electrode, investigated generated energy (generation current and generating voltage).

In addition, connect of the load of the resistance of 48 Ω as battery.Maximum generation stream is 0.7mA in simulated gastric fluid, is 0.06mA through the generated energy after 8 hours.Generating voltage is 1.25V, and after through 8 hours, does not produce deterioration.

Maximum generation stream is 0.12mA in simulated gastric fluid, is 0.02mA through the generated energy after 8 hours.Generating voltage is 1.2V, and after through 8 hours, does not produce deterioration basically.

The power-supply system of the 1st embodiment of the present invention then, is described.

The capsule apparatus of this embodiment mainly is the power-supply system that is used for carrying out under one's belt work, and is identical with the structure shown in Figure 1B.

This power-supply system is in the outside wall surface of capsule apparatus 1; The electrode pair of electrode 2 that is made up of aluminum that formation plays a role as negative electrode and the electrode 3 that is made up of carbon that plays a role as anode constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte (electrolyte).In the capsule apparatus internal configurations power supply unit 6 is arranged, be connected with each electrode 2,3 through wiring 4a, 4b.These wirings 4a, 4b are connected with the part molten deposited (or soldering) of the electrode 2,3 that inwall at capsule apparatus exposes.Power supply unit 6 is general circuit structures, for example is amplifying circuit and constant voltage circuit (or constant-current circuit) are integrated into an integrated circuit on the chip.In addition, stable in order to make output, can be at the capacitor (electric charge accumulation element) of input side configuration as buffer performance function.

The exposed portions serve of this electrode medial surface can be exposed from the interior STH of capsule 5b.For example, in advance in the electrode of capsule 5b forms the zone from the outside cutting hole (bottom outlet is arranged) or groove, through formation electrodes such as spatter film formings with this hole of landfill.For example, if the size of capsule apparatus 1 for the size of

then electrode 2,3 respectively to form about 10 * 10mm.Afterwards, eliminate thin bottom branch, can easily expose electrode 2,3 through inboard from capsule 5b.

As additive method, process the seamlessly chimeric mould in inboard with this capsule 5b.After when the formation of capsule 5b, in the zone of predetermined formation electrode, opening 1 through hole at least, mould is fitted to the capsule inboard.Afterwards, form electrode with the mode in the landfill hole from the outside, if extract this mould, then electrode exposes in the capsule inboard.

The power-supply system of this structure since the inside of stomach be digestive appartus content 7 a kind of, be gastric content and for acid, therefore through with its voltaic cell, in electrode 2, produce Al → Al as electrolyte ³⁺+ 3e ^-Oxidation reaction, in electrode 3, produce reduction reaction, produce electromotive force thus.

These electrodes 2,3 can carry out various distortion, change as long as expose and be impregnated into the digestive appartus content at the outer surface of capsule body 5.For example,, expose, do not have other restrictions as long as form on its surface electrode 2,3 being embedded under the situation of depression that the outer surface of capsule body 5 is processed or protrusion.In addition, electrode 3 is except carbon electrode, and can utilize with platinum is that other main various noble metals form electrode.

The surface area of these electrodes 2,3 is as long as design according to the amount of the required electric current of capsule apparatus 1.Current, if be the power consumption of example with the capsule apparatus of practicability, then electrode area is respectively 0.25～2cm ²Just enough.And the bigger if desired magnitude of current then further enlarges electrode surface area and gets final product.If the capsule apparatus of practicability then adds up to can form maximum area to 6cm ²About electrode.

Then, the 1st variation as in the 1st embodiment describes the power-supply system with the electrode that has changed cross sectional shape.In this variation, except electrode, other are identical with the structure of power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st embodiment.

[the 1st variation of the 1st embodiment]

The striated electrode 11 of the 1st variation forms shape of stripes, and this shape of stripes is meant the orthogonal protuberance towards the fore-and-aft direction of capsule 5 is formed multistage line.As its formation method, can after forming thick film, mechanically eliminate, perhaps can after forming mask, remove through anisotropic etching.

Through the orthogonal striated electrode 11 of such formation; Not only can enlarge the surface area that contacts with the digestive appartus content; And can not be close to, thereby guarantee the zone that contacts with the digestive appartus content with coat of the stomach with the slot part of coat of the stomach (intestinal wall) striped of electrode surface when contacting.Thus, can prevent that electromotive force from reducing.And, follow capsular flowing down, the digestive appartus content rearward moves along orthogonal fin, therefore more effectively breaks away from the bubble hydrogen that is produced.

And striated electrode 11 can also be brought into play function as fin.That is, also has the function that heat that each driving part with capsule apparatus produces sheds from electrode.Therefore, the increase of the surface area of electrode and the area increase that is used to dispel the heat have likewise improved the performance relevant with cooling.

[the 2nd variation of the 1st embodiment]

Then, the 2nd variation as in the 1st embodiment describes the power-supply system with the electrode that has changed cross sectional shape.In this variation, except electrode, other are identical with the structure of power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st embodiment.Fig. 4 shows along the cross sectional shape of the electrode of the 2nd variation of the A-A direction of Figure 1A.

The striated electrode 12 of the 2nd variation forms curved surface with respect to the striated electrode 11 of the square-section in above-mentioned the 1st variation with the cross section.As the formation method, after forming thick film, form curved surface through isotropic etchings such as wet etchings.Certainly being not necessarily curved surface, also can be that the side with striped eliminates the shape into taper.

The 2nd variation can access and the identical action effect of above-mentioned the 1st variation.

[the 3rd variation of the 1st embodiment]

Then, as the 3rd variation in the 1st embodiment, the power-supply system of electrode with the function that keeps the digestive appartus content is described.In this variation, except electrode, other are identical with the structure of power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st embodiment.Fig. 5 A is the figure of surface structure that the capsule apparatus of the 3rd variation is shown.Fig. 5 B is the figure that illustrates along the cross section structure of the electrode of the B-B direction of Fig. 5 A.

The 3rd variation is to separate being separated by space 15 of any distance with respect to electrode 2,3 and be provided with the structure of netted lid 13,14.These netted lids the 13, the 14th, the shape of coated electrode 2,3 is provided with the opening in the space 15 that is separated by at fore-and-aft direction (short brink of electrode shown in Figure 4), connects at side (long side of electrode shown in Figure 4).

These netted lids 13,14 are done in order to electrode 2,3 is immersed in the digestive appartus content (or digestive appartus content liquid) 7 all the time when keeping digestive appartus content 7 and resting in vivo.In addition, the space 15 that is separated by that the fore-and-aft direction opening is set is to consider when in vivo flowing down, and has new digestive appartus content 7 to enter into the space 15 that is separated by all the time.In addition, can flow through the space 15 that is separated by after the direction through making digestive appartus content 7, the bubble that will on electrode, produce extrudes towards the rear in the past.

In addition, the width of mesh of netted lid 13,14 can suitably be selected.In addition, in 1 threw the net, the digestive appartus content 7 in order easily keep to get into adopted the net than fine mesh forwardly, adopted than the net of coarse mesh etc. in order easily to flow out bubble in the wings, can make up the size of different meshes.In addition, the aperture area of the open area ratio outlet side of the entrance side of the digestive appartus content 7 through making the place ahead is big, forms easy suction digestive appartus content 7, and extrudes from outlet easily.

In addition, in this variation,, adopted netted lid, but be not limited thereto, the perforated board in the hole of a plurality of arbitrary diameters that can be opening also in order to keep digestive appartus content 7.

In addition, if make netted lid 13,14 help to electrify, then use metal (conduction) parts, for example get final product with the electrode identical materials.On the other hand, if only keep digestive appartus content 7, then also can pass through miscellaneous part, the formation of for example resin material.

As discussed above, through netted lid 13,14 is set to devices spaced apart above electrode 2,3, when resting in vivo, can electrode 2,3 be immersed in the digestive appartus content all the time, can stably electrify.In addition, form netted lid 13,14 with electrode 2,3 identical metal materials, can increase the magnitude of current that electrifies, and not increase the formation occupied area of the electrode in the capsule body 5 through utilizing.

[the 4th variation of the 1st embodiment]

Then, as the 4th variation in the 1st embodiment, the power-supply system that antikathode and anode have a plurality of electrodes respectively describes.In this variation, except electrode, other are identical with the structure of power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st embodiment.

Fig. 6 is the figure that the cross section structure of the power-supply system in the capsule apparatus 1 of the 4th variation is shown.

The 4th variation alternately forms a plurality of electrodes (negative electrode) 16 and electrode (anode) 17 with the mode of the periphery of encirclement capsule body 5. Electrode 16,17 forms external electrode 16a, the 17a of the outside wall surface side that is arranged at capsule body 5 and is arranged at interior electrode 16b, 17b through hole or the groove of internal face side and becomes the bobbin shape of one.Certainly the outer shape of electrode 16,17 can suitably be selected.

Their interior electrode 16a, 17b have area to a certain degree, therefore with being connected of wiring 4 (4a1,4a2,4a3,4a4) of power supply unit 6 become easy.And reception is arranged at the heat that the structure position in the capsule body 5 produces in interior electrode 16a, 17b, is delivered to external electrode 16b, 17b through hole or groove, and further dispels the heat from external electrode 16b, 17b.

As above illustrated, can utilize the kind electrode structure, the heat that driving produced of the structure position in the capsule body 5 of shedding efficiently.In addition, can easily in these electrodes 16,17, use above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd variation.

[the 5th variation of the 1st embodiment]

Then, as the 5th variation in the 1st embodiment, the structure example that in the electrode of power-supply system, is provided with temperature sensor is described with reference to Fig. 7.

In above-mentioned the 1st to the 4th variation, counter electrode 2,3 has heat sinking function and describes.This variation is following structure: so that mode outstanding or that expose is provided with pick off, the for example thermocouple sensor 18 of measuring temperature from the surface of 1 electrode 2 (3), and in capsule body 5, disposed temperature survey portion 19.In electrode 2 (3), be provided with under the situation of thermocouple sensor 18, expectation is arranged to around the adiabator encirclement pick off, thereby gets rid of to come the influence of the heat (because heat of the driving and generating of structure position) of self-electrode 2 (3).

According to this variation, can be under common state, inspection is as the temperature in the internal organs pipe of the deep body temperature of immeasurable live body.

[the 2nd embodiment]

Then, the capsule apparatus to the lift-launch power-supply system of the 2nd embodiment describes.

Fig. 8 shows the surface structure example that is mainly used in the capsule apparatus that in duodenum and small intestinal, carries out work.Here, about the structure position of this embodiment, to the identical reference number of the equal structure position of the structure position of above-mentioned the 1st embodiment mark, and omit its explanation.

As the power-supply system that is equipped on this capsule apparatus 1; Wall at capsule body 5; The electrode 22 that is made up of aluminum that formation plays a role as negative electrode and as the electrode 23 that is made up of carbon that anode plays a role constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte.In capsule body 5, dispose above-mentioned power supply unit 6, and utilize wiring to connect.And whole the thin film that is made up of gelatin materials (gelatin film) 24 of electrode 21 covers.Capsule apparatus 21 before gelatin film 24 dissolving, prevents that gastric juice etc. is attached on the electrode 21 when putting in vivo.

Thus, capsule apparatus 21 can arrive duodenum or small intestinal before electrode 22 contact gastric juice, begin generating.Gelatin film 24 dissolving of this moment can increase and decrease the time of electrode 22 before exposing of adjusting to the thickness of film according to the information that obtains through experience or experiment.Therefore, after input, can to capsule apparatus 21 power supply be provided in the timing after arriving duodenum or small intestinal.

Generally speaking, duodenum effectively plays a role in order to make the pancreatic enzyme as digestive enzyme, and pH is the alkalescence about about 8-9.In this embodiment, formed electrode 22 through aluminum, even it is under this weakly alkaline condition, also oxidized as the aluminum of amphoteric metal.Therefore, electrode 22,23 can carry out work as battery, to capsule apparatus 21 power supply is provided.

In addition, the gelatin film 24 of this embodiment can also be substituted by other materials.For example, except gelatin, can also be with the thin film as material such as starch, agar or sugar, as long as can or decompose, then can use ad lib in the inner dissolving of digestive appartus.

As stated, in this embodiment, therefore the surface-coated film of the aluminum of electrode 22 can directly not be exposed in the air (oxygen).Therefore, the oxidation of the electrode in the time of can preventing keeping can be exported electrifying of normal value immediately after Film Fractionation.And,, therefore compare and can reduce cost with precious metal material owing to can form electrode through aluminum.In addition, in this embodiment, can use the electrode and the netted lid of above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd variation.

[the 3rd embodiment]

Then, the capsule apparatus to the lift-launch power-supply system of the 3rd embodiment describes.

Fig. 9 shows the cross section structure that mainly in large intestine, carries out the capsule apparatus of work.Here, about the structure position of this embodiment, to the identical reference number of the equal structure position of the structure position of above-mentioned the 1st embodiment mark, and omit its explanation.

The power supply unit 6 (not shown) of the power-supply system in this capsule apparatus 1 is and the identical structure of above-mentioned the 1st embodiment.

The capsule apparatus 1 of this embodiment is at the outer surface of capsule body 5, forms the electrode 22 that is made up of aluminum that plays a role as negative electrode and as the electrode 23 that is made up of carbon that anode plays a role, constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte.Identical with the electrode in above-mentioned the 2nd embodiment.These electrodes 22,23 are used to keep the porous body thin film 25 of solution to cover, and are further covered by gelatin film 24.

Utilize this structure, after input, arrive before the large intestine during in, gelatin film 24 does not dissolve, and prevents that gastric juice or enteral material are attached on the electrode 22,23.And, when arriving large intestine, gelatin film 24 dissolvings, thus the digestive appartus content contacts with electrode 22,23 and begins to generate electricity.At this moment; Porous body thin film 25 remains with electrolyte impregnated electrode 22,23; Even under the state that the water quantities of the electrolyte in large intestine in the digestive appartus content tails off, also can electrode 2,3 be dipped in the digestive appartus content all the time, thereby can stably electrify.

And, through using gelatin film 24, can access with above-mentioned the 2nd embodiment in the identical action effect of effect.In addition, in this embodiment, can also use above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd variation.

[the 4th embodiment]

Then, the capsule apparatus to the lift-launch power-supply system of the 4th embodiment describes.

This embodiment is that power-supply system of the present invention is applied to the example that in small intestinal, carries out the capsule endoscope of work.Figure 10 illustrates an example of the internal structure of capsule endoscope 31.Here, about the structure position of this embodiment, to the identical reference number of the equal structure position of the structure position of above-mentioned the 1st embodiment mark, and omit its explanation.

The power-supply system that is equipped on this capsule endoscope 31 is made up of electrode 2,3 and power supply unit 6, and is identical with power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd embodiment and the 1st to the 4th variation.Electrode 2,3 has for example been supposed the size about 10mm * 10mm respectively.

Capsule endoscope 31 has: camera lens 32, and it is used for after putting into live body, in digestive appartus, photography target (being taken the photograph body) is carried out to picture; Be used for a plurality of light-emitting components (for example LED) 33 of throwing light on of the photography visual field; Camera lens retainer 34, it keeps camera lens 32 and light-emitting component 33; Cmos sensor 35, its optical image that camera lens 32 is become carries out opto-electronic conversion and generates picture signal; Image processing part and wireless signal converter section (ASIC) 36; And antenna 37.

Shot image signals is carried out noise remove and the various treatment for correcting relevant with image quality; And the information relevant with photography together; Be generated as view data, and convert the information signal that radio communication is used into, send to and be configured in sv image received device 20.For the transmission of captured image, send all the time in can be during making a video recording, can carry memorizer and store captured image temporarily and when becoming certain image volume, send, perhaps can also send according to pre-set time interval.

The capsule endoscope that has carried this power-supply system 31 is impregnated in the simulated gastric fluid (contain 0.2%NaCl, 0.04% pepsin, 1M HCl and be adjusted into PH3.0) that in 36 ℃ temperature chamber, is provided with.Through the power supply that the power-supply system that is immersed in the simulated gastric fluid produces, drive each structure position of capsule endoscope 31, implement shooting.Through sending captured image, and show the photography and the transmission of affirmation image with the monitor (scope) of external equipment from antenna 37.

As stated, power-supply system of the present invention can be carried in the capsule endoscope, and batteries such as alternative existing silver oxide button cell carry out power supply and supply with.

[the 5th embodiment]

Then, the capsule apparatus to the lift-launch power-supply system of the 5th embodiment describes.

This embodiment is that power-supply system of the present invention is applied to the example that in small intestinal, carries out the capsule endoscope of work.Figure 11 illustrates an example of the internal structure of capsule endoscope 41.About the structure position of this embodiment, to bringing into play the identical reference number of structure position mark of function comparably, and omit its explanation here, with the structure position shown in Figure 10 of above-mentioned the 4th embodiment.

The power-supply system that is equipped on this capsule endoscope 41 is made up of electrode and power supply unit, and is identical with power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd embodiment and the 1st to the 4th variation.

Capsule endoscope 41 is by constituting with lower component: camera lens 32; A plurality of light-emitting components (LED) 33; Camera lens retainer 34; CCD 38, and its optical image that camera lens 32 is become carries out opto-electronic conversion and generates picture signal; DSP (Digital Signal Processor: digital signal processor) 39, it implements noise remove and various treatment for correcting to picture signal; Wireless sending module 40, the view data after it will be handled converts wireless signal into; And antenna 37.

In DSP 39; Captured image is generated as view data together with the relevant information of photography; In wireless sending module 40, convert wireless signal (information signal that radio communication is used) into, and use antenna 37 to send to be configured in sv image received device 20.

With above-mentioned the 4th embodiment likewise, this capsule endoscope 41 is immersed in the above-mentioned simulated gastric fluid, produce power supply from power-supply system and drive capsule endoscope 41, implement shooting.Through sending captured image, and show the photography and the transmission of affirmation image with the monitor of external equipment (image received device) from antenna 37.

As stated, power-supply system of the present invention can be carried in the capsule endoscope, and batteries such as alternative existing silver oxide button cell carry out power supply and supply with.In addition, the capsule endoscope of this embodiment is compared with the capsule endoscope of existing structure, has produced the space of laying down behind the battery, therefore can further realize miniaturization.

[the 6th embodiment]

Then, the capsule apparatus to the lift-launch power-supply system of the 6th embodiment describes.

The capsule apparatus of this embodiment is following capsule apparatus: in capsule body, and the sampled functions portion and the function portion of endoscope of carrying the administration function portion of spraying medicinal liquid towards the object position or the gas around the object of observation and liquid being taken a sample.

Figure 12 illustrates an example of the internal structure of capsule apparatus.About the structure position of this embodiment, to bringing into play the identical reference number of structure position mark of function comparably, and omit its explanation here, with the structure position shown in Figure 10 of above-mentioned the 4th embodiment.

The power-supply system that is equipped on this capsule apparatus 51 is made up of electrode 2,3 and power supply unit 6, and is identical with power-supply system in above-mentioned the 1st to the 3rd embodiment and the 1st to the 4th variation.

The function portion of endoscope of capsule apparatus 51 has carried and the identical structure of above-mentioned the 4th embodiment.That is, endoscope's function portion has camera lens 32, light-emitting component (LED) 33, camera lens retainer 34, cmos sensor 35, ASIC36 and antenna 37.

In addition, administration function portion drops into nozzle 55 by the medicinal liquid cylinder 52 of taking in any medicinal liquid, electromagnetic valve 53, compressed carbon acid gas tube 54, medicinal liquid and constitutes.In addition, the indication of the control part (not shown) of electromagnetic valve 53 through being arranged at above-mentioned ASIC 36 opens and closes.

Have the image arbitrarily that the capsule apparatus 51 of function portion of endoscope and administration function portion is taken from visual observation in vivo, confirm object position as target.Then, Yi Bian confirm image, Yi Bian indicate to open electromagnetic valve 53 from the outside.When opening electromagnetic valve 53, compressed carbonic acid gas drops into nozzle 55 from medicinal liquid and extrudes the medicinal liquid that is stored in the medicinal liquid cylinder 52.Drop into the object position of the target that nozzle 55 shows towards the monitor at image received device 2 from medicinal liquid and spray this medicinal liquid.

The medicinal liquid that is fit to this embodiment is not only the medicament that is used to cure, and for example can also use the various medicines such as contrast agent or anticarcinogen of MRI diagnosis usefulness.

And capsule body 5 has pH value pick off or chemical sensor.Not only can use these pick offs to carry out judgement, and can realize the timing input of medicinal liquid according to the testing result of pH value pick off or chemical sensor based on image.Timing input can preestablish decision content through the testing result with respect to pH value pick off or chemical sensor, realizes dropping into automatically.For example, if use the pH value pick off, capsule apparatus 51 from the low gastric portion of the pH of digestive appartus content when the high duodenum of pH moves, if detected pH value surpasses decision content, then can drop into medicinal liquid.

In addition, sampled functions portion can utilize the structure of administration function portion.That is, sampled functions portion can be through vacating medicinal liquid cylinder 52 and with being made as vacuum state in the compressed carbon acid gas tube 54, carrying out obtaining of interior gas of digestive tube and digestive appartus content liquid.

Have the image arbitrarily that the capsule apparatus 51 of function portion of endoscope and sampled functions portion is taken from visual observation in vivo, electromagnetic valve 53 is opened in indication from the outside in the target location.When opening electromagnetic valve 53, drop into nozzle 55 from medicinal liquid gas in the digestive appartus and liquid are introduced and is stored into the medicinal liquid cylinder 52, with the negative pressure of the vacuum state of elimination compressed carbon acid gas tube 21.Then, make function portion of the endoscope work of capsule apparatus 51, obtain image.Certainly, the image after can not carrying out is obtained, and directly is discharged to external.

As stated, according to the capsule apparatus of the 6th embodiment, after putting into live body, observe the image through endoscope function portion obtained on one side, when desired destination object position, can spray medicinal liquid towards this object position on one side through opening electromagnetic valve 53.And; In identical structure; Through compressed carbon acid gas tube 21 is made as vacuum state and vacates medicinal liquid cylinder 52; When electromagnetic valve 53 is opened in the position of expectation, gas and liquid in the digestive appartus on every side are incorporated into capsule body inside, the result can obtain gas and the solution in the digestive appartus in the medicinal liquid cylinder.

In addition, through adopting the power-supply system of this embodiment, because the battery outer space in the capsule apparatus of structure was vacated in the past, so can administration function portion be installed in this space, the size that does not change capsule apparatus thus just can realize this power-supply system.

In addition, in this embodiment, any one form of having carried in sampled functions portion and the administration function portion is illustrated, but also can be the structure of carrying these parts in the lump.In addition, in embodiment, administration function portion is the structure of ejection medicinal liquid, but also can be the structure of ejection medicated powder.

And; In Figure 12, the medicinal liquid of administration function portion drops into nozzle 55 and shows the state that keeps opening, but in order to prevent the intrusion of unnecessary digestive appartus content etc.; Can also the lid that opens and closes can be set in the jet hole setting because medicinal liquid ejection or vacuum suck and broken thin film.

The sampled functions portion of the 6th embodiment directly takes a sample to the digestive appartus gas inside at the photography position with the mode of low invasion and attack.But, in technique known, can not directly take a sample at the photography position with the mode of low invasion and attack to the digestive appartus gas inside.In addition, from the sampling of the gas of anus, its composition may change when gas in the digestive appartus moves in digestive appartus.Therefore, the new sampling method of the capsule apparatus of this embodiment can provide new diagnostic method, can fully produce the optimal subject of taking-up under the situation of cutting equivalent damage to live body.

Power-supply system of the present invention discussed above comprises situation and the situation of getting rid of and change the structure position of a part of the structure of above-mentioned each embodiment of appropriate combination and each variation, can easily implement certainly.In addition, the capsule apparatus of this embodiment is not limited to monomer and uses, and can also use with other testing fixtures or armarium combination.For example, can use X-ray apparatus etc. in the lump, use the confirming etc. of camera positions of the image that obtains through capsule apparatus as required.In addition; In above-mentioned the 1st to the 6th embodiment and the 1st to the 4th variation; The electrode (electrode pair) that is formed on the outside wall surface of capsule body forms according to the state that exposes electrode surface towards the outside, unlike the structure of above-mentioned the 3rd patent documentation, adopts to make electrode relatively be accommodated in the intravital structure of shell; In capsular main body and on the outer wall, do not comprise the relative configuration of electrode surface.

[the 7th embodiment]

Then, the power-supply system in the capsule apparatus 1 that is arranged on the 7th embodiment is described.

This power-supply system is following system: form with above-mentioned the 1st embodiment in Figure 1B shown in the identical structure of capsule body 5, electrode material is different, uses as the intestinal juice that is in electrode digestive appartus content on every side and generates electricity as electrolyte.

This power-supply system is by constituting with lower component: at least two electrodes 2,3 that are made up of the material different metallic that are arranged on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5 and all expose; And power supply unit 6, it utilizes the electromotive force that is produced by these electrodes 2,3 to generate the power supply of predetermined constant voltage.

As the Power Generation Section of this power-supply system, if use electrode 2,3, and use digestive appartus content (intestinal juice) 7 that is in around the electrode as electrolyte, then become the known battery structure that is known as voltaic cell shown in Figure 2.Power supply unit 6 uses the electromotive force in the electrode that utilizes this voltaic cell 2, generation between 3, and above-mentioned each structure position in capsule apparatus 1 provides power supply.

Generally speaking, the electromotive force of voltaic cell is according to the standard electrode potential difference decision of these the two kinds electrodes that are made up of different metal.In embodiment, selected aluminum (also comprising aluminium alloy) as amphoteric metal as the electrode 2 of negative electrode.This is because as negative electrode, alkali metal or alkaline-earth metal are proper, but the influence that input live body is produced must be less, need be the electrodes that can both generate electricity in the inside of tart stomach and the duodenum inside of alkalescence.

On the other hand; In common voltaic cell; Hydrionic reduction reaction is overriding in as anodic electrode 3; But be accompanied by the hydrogen of this reaction generation owing to be attached on the electrode, not only become the reason that generation current reduces, and may become the generation source of the gas of enteral.In order to prevent this situation, in this embodiment, proposed to utilize Power Generation Section that the material of electrode and intestinal juice generates electricity as biological voltaic cell.

On electrode 3,, use hydrion that enteral prods is reduced with the mode of additional hydrogen through catalytic action.In this reaction, can access the generation current bigger than hydrionic reduction reaction.In order effectively to carry out this reaction, the expectation electrode has the surface area of broad, and must have safety to live body.

As the electrode that satisfies this requirement, optimal is carbon electrode.The material with carbon element that is used for carbon electrode is not as long as the electric conductivity height then needs special qualification; But, can adopt with acetylene carbon black or section's qin carbon black (trade name: ラ イ オ Application) be synthetic, graphite, carbon fiber, CNT, carbon nanohorn, these mixtures of material of electrical conductivity Carbon black, carbon black and the amorphous carbon of representative or these materials are spread to carbon paper or carbon cloth etc. have the material that is obtained on the base material of electric conductivity as object lesson.

For the carbon electrode that makes electrode 3 has catalytic action, on carbon electrode, supported noble metal.The noble metal that is supported is considered safety and the reaction properties in the input live body, is suitably for gold, platinum, palladium, rhodium, silver.

The capsule apparatus of this embodiment carries and is mainly used in the power-supply system of in intestinal, carrying out work.

This power-supply system is in the outside wall surface of capsule apparatus 1; The electrode pair of electrode 2 that is made up of aluminum that formation plays a role as negative electrode and the carbon electrode that supports Pt 3 that plays a role as anode constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte (electrolyte).

In this capsule apparatus internal configurations power supply unit 6 is arranged, be connected with each electrode 2,3 through wiring 4a, 4b.These wirings 4a, 4b are connected with the part molten deposited (or soldering) of the electrode 2,3 that inwall at capsule apparatus exposes.Power supply unit 6 is general circuit structures, for example is amplifying circuit and constant voltage circuit (or constant-current circuit) are integrated into an integrated circuit on the chip.In addition, stable in order to make output, can be at the capacitor (electric charge accumulation element) of input side configuration as buffer performance function.

The exposed portions serve of this electrode medial surface can be exposed from the interior STH of capsule 5b.For example, in advance in the electrode of capsule 5b forms the zone from the outside cutting hole (bottom outlet is arranged) or groove, through formation electrodes such as spatter film formings with this hole of landfill.For example, if the size of capsule apparatus 1 for the size of then electrode 2,3 respectively to form about 10 * 10mm.Afterwards, eliminate thin bottom branch, can easily expose electrode 2,3 through inboard from capsule 5b.

As additive method, process the seamlessly chimeric mould in inboard with this capsule 5b.After when the formation of capsule 5b, in the zone of predetermined formation electrode, opening 1 through hole at least, mould is fitted to the capsule inboard.Afterwards, form electrode with the mode in the landfill hole from the outside, if extract this mould, then electrode exposes in the capsule inboard.

The power-supply system of this structure constitutes the biological voltaic cell of digestive appartus content 7 as electrolyte, in electrode 2, produces Al → Al ³⁺+ 3e ^-Oxidation reaction, in electrode 3, when the live body material that intestinal juice comprised is made as A, like H ⁺+ A+e ^-→ HA makes digestive appartus content 7 carry out reduction reaction with catalytic mode suchly, produces electromotive force thus.As the material that in electrode 3, carries out reduction reaction, for example can enumerate taurocholic acid such be included in the material in the intestinal juice mostly.

These electrodes 2,3 can carry out various distortion, change as long as on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5, expose and be impregnated into the digestive appartus content.For example,, expose, do not have other restrictions as long as form on its surface electrode 2,3 being embedded under the situation of depression that the outer surface of capsule body 5 is processed or protrusion.

In addition, the surface area of electrode 2,3 is as long as design according to the amount of the required electric current of capsule apparatus 1.Current, if be the power consumption of example with the capsule apparatus of practicability, then electrode area is respectively 0.25～2cm ²Just enough.And the bigger if desired magnitude of current then further enlarges electrode surface area and gets final product.If the capsule apparatus of practicability then adds up to can form maximum area to 6cm ²About electrode.And electrode 2 can provide bigger area through being provided with concavo-convex on the surface or using porous aluminum such as foamed aluminium.

The generated energy of the electrode 3 that constitutes to the electrode 2 that is made up of the aluminum electrode of this embodiment with by the carbon electrode that supports Pt describes with the generating persistency.

At first,, electrode 2,3 is impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, for example applies the load of 48 Ω, carry out the measurement of 8 hours generated energy in order to investigate generated energy and generating persistency.In addition, this load 48 Ω are that the load when confirming with the quality in the manufacturing process that carries out aneroid battery is the numerical value of benchmark.In addition, Measuring Time being set at 8 hours, is after swallowing capsule apparatus, is discharged to the supposition time till external from stomach through intestinal.

Figure 13 is the figure with respect to the generation current in elapsed time that the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment is shown, and Figure 14 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generating voltage in elapsed time that electrode 2,3 is shown.

Shown in figure 13, from generating electricity initial 2 hours in, generation current sharply reduces, still after through 8 hours in, at every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In stably carry out the generating of the 1mA magnitude of current.In addition, shown in figure 14, generating voltage did not have deterioration through 8 hours yet, kept the voltage of 1.5V.

In addition, Figure 15 shows the electrode area of electrode 2,3 and the relation between the generation current.According to this result, the proportional relation of electrode area and generation current, when increasing electrode area, generation current also becomes big with it pro rata.Therefore, can increase the generation current amount through increasing electrode area according to the required magnitude of current.

[comparative example]

Figure 16 and Figure 17 show about the comparative example of the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment with respect to the generation current in elapsed time and the characteristic of generating voltage.Figure 16 show to the electrode of the electrode 2 that is equivalent to this embodiment use the aluminum electrode, to the generation current in the comparative example of the electrode Using P t electrode that is equivalent to electrode 3 with respect to the elapsed time.In addition, Figure 17 shows the generating voltage with respect to the elapsed time in this comparative example.

The aluminum electrode and the Pt electrode of this comparative example are impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, apply and above-mentioned same load 48 Ω, carry out the measurement of the generated energy in 8 hours.Measured generation current is from the minimizing gradually in initial about 3 hours of generating electricity, afterwards through 8 hours, at every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In stably carry out the generating of the 2 μ A magnitudes of current.Voltage is less through 8 hours deterioration, keeps the voltage of 1.5V.

Therefore, this embodiment by aluminum electrode 2 and the generating voltage of the electrode pair that constitutes by aluminum electrode and Pt electrode of generating voltage and comparative example that supports the electrode pair that the carbon electrode of Pt constitutes all between about 2V～1.5V.But the generation current of this embodiment is compared with the generation current of comparative example, can access big 3 current value.That is, this embodiment further is in the practical stage through guaranteeing electrode area.

[the 8th embodiment]

Power-supply system in the 2nd embodiment describes.

This embodiment forms the electrode 2 that is made up of the aluminum electrode and the structure of the electrode 3 that is made up of the carbon electrode that supports AuPt, as the electrode in the power-supply system.Below, generated energy in this electrode structure and generating persistency are described.

These electrodes 2,3 are impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, apply load 48 Ω, carry out from the measurement of the generated energy in initial 8 hours that generates electricity.Figure 18 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment is shown.

Shown in figure 18, from generating electricity initial about 3 hours in, at every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In, reduce to about 2mA from 4mA, in through 8 hours, stably carry out the generating of the above magnitude of current of 0.5mA afterwards.The maximum generation electric current is 4mA.For generating voltage, also same with above-mentioned the 1st embodiment, in through 8 hours, there is not the deterioration of degradation under the voltage.

According to the power-supply system of this embodiment, be in the practical stage through guaranteeing electrode area.

[variation of the 8th embodiment]

In addition, in this structure,, the minimizing of generation current is assumed to the minimizing of the actual electrode area that helps to generate electricity owing to the bubble that produces at anode or some reasons such as oxidation of Al electrode surface.In addition, in Figure 13 to Figure 15 and measurement shown in Figure 180, electrode 2,3 inserted be impregnated into the simulated intestinal fluid in the container.Therefore, do not put into actual live body, do not have to contact with new digestive appartus content 7 all the time owing to flow down.In addition, even in electrode, produced under the situation of bubble or oxide-film, do not remove their work yet.

Therefore, in this variation,, append predetermined electrode to schedule and append electrode area, according to the nondecreasing mode of electrode area that helps to generate electricity is generated electricity in order to obtain constant generation current.

Figure 19 is that to be illustrated in the aluminum electrode area of generating when initial be 0.5cm ²Situation under, begin to append in per 2 hours 0.5cm from generating ²The figure of characteristic of the generation current of aluminum electrode when generating electricity.

In this example, the initial aluminum electrode area that generates electricity is 0.5cm ², increase to 2cm after 8 hours ²Can know that through increase the area of aluminum electrode according to the time, after increase, generation current returns to the initial current value of generating immediately.Even see on the whole, the magnitude of current from generate electricity initial through 8 hours after, as the meansigma methods also output of stable supplying 3mA.Therefore,, the initial current value of generating can be returned, the above generation current of certain value can be continued to obtain through after the generating beginning, regularly appending electrode.

In addition, as the method for regular increase electrode area, for example with different thin film (gelatin film) coated electrode that constitutes by the gelatin materials surface of thickness.Gelatin film has the dissolving of time difference ground at enteral, and new electrode surface is regularly exposed in the electrolyte of digestive appartus content 7.

[the 9th embodiment]

Power-supply system in the 9th embodiment describes.

This embodiment forms the electrode 2 that is made up of the aluminum electrode and the structure of the electrode 3 that is made up of the carbon electrode that supports Au, as the electrode in the power-supply system.Below, generated energy in this electrode structure and generating persistency are described.

These electrodes 2,3 are impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, apply load 48 Ω, carry out from the measurement of the generated energy in initial 8 hours that generates electricity.Figure 20 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment is shown.

Shown in figure 20, from generating electricity initial about 3 hours in, generation current reduces gradually, afterwards through in 8 hours, at every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In stably carry out the generating of the 0.5mA magnitude of current.The maximum generation electric current is 3mA.Voltage is not through there being deterioration in 8 hours yet.According to the power-supply system of this embodiment, be in the practical stage through guaranteeing electrode area.

[the 10th embodiment]

Power-supply system in the 10th embodiment describes.

This embodiment forms the electrode 2 that is made up of the aluminum electrode and the structure of the electrode 3 that is made up of the carbon electrode of loading Pd Pt, as the electrode in the power-supply system.Below, generated energy in this electrode structure and generating persistency are described.

The carbon electrode of this loading Pd Pt is not used as the electrode of fuel cell up to now substantially, but through biological voltaic cell is used two kinds of noble metals, helps the long lifetime of electromotive force and battery life, has improved performance.Especially, in the combination of two kinds of noble metals, the combination of Pd and Pt is more suitable.

These electrodes 2,3 are impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, apply load 48 Ω, carry out from the measurement of the generated energy in initial 8 hours that generates electricity.Figure 21 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment is shown.

Shown in figure 21, from generating electricity initial about 3 hours in, generation current reduces gradually, afterwards through in 8 hours, at the every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In stably carry out the generating of the 1.5mA magnitude of current.The maximum generation electric current is 7mA.Voltage is not through there being deterioration in 8 hours yet.According to the power-supply system of this embodiment, be in the practical stage through guaranteeing electrode area.

[the 11st embodiment]

Power-supply system in the 11st embodiment describes.

This embodiment forms the electrode 2 that is made up of the aluminum electrode and the structure of the electrode 3 that is made up of the carbon electrode of loading Pd, as the electrode in the power-supply system.Below, generated energy in this electrode structure and generating persistency are described.

These electrodes 2,3 are impregnated in the simulated intestinal fluid, apply load 48 Ω, carry out from the measurement of the generated energy in initial 8 hours that generates electricity.Figure 22 is the figure with respect to the characteristic of the generation current in elapsed time that the electrode 2,3 of this embodiment is shown.

Shown in figure 22, from generating electricity initial about 3 hours in, generation current reduces gradually, afterwards through in 8 hours, at every 1cm of Al electrode area ²In stably carry out the generating of the 0.3mA magnitude of current.The maximum generation electric current is 3.5mA.Voltage is not through there being deterioration in 8 hours yet.

[the 12nd embodiment]

In the electrode structure of the power-supply system of above-mentioned the 7th to the 11st embodiment, initially can access the generation current that is in practical level in generating, but along with effluxion, its generation current value has the trend that diminishes.Its reason is to consider following situation: change with the electrolyte electrodes in contact surface of digestive appartus content 7, become the situation of the state that is unfavorable for generating electricity; And stop owing to the electrolyte of the digestive appartus content 7 that contacts with electrode does not flow, become the state that has contacted identical electrolyte, so do not carry out the situation of suitable generating.

Because flowing down at enteral with the capsule apparatus that carries power-supply system is prerequisite, so the electrode pair (electrode 2,3) that supposition is formed on the outer surface of capsule body 5 contacts with the electrolyte of new digestive appartus content 7 all the time.Therefore, electrode pair is owing to having produced the electrolyte flow with respect to digestive appartus content 7, so no problem.

Shown in figure 23, the electrode pair of this embodiment has the stepped construction electrode 61,62 of same structure.The electrode material of cambium layer stack structure electrode 61,62 has used the combination of the material that above-mentioned the 7th to the 11st embodiment puts down in writing.

Stepped construction electrode 62 has formed the stepped construction like lower component: a plurality of electrode slice 63a to 63e; And be folded in thin film (gelatin film) 64a to 64e that constitutes by gelatin materials as thin as a wafer between these electrode slices.A plurality of electrode slice 63a to 63e form opening and go out the thin film of a plurality of apertures or netted, make the gelatin film 64a to 64e that establishes through the electrolyte dissolving folder of digestive appartus content 7.Therefore, electrode slice 63a to 63e can not be smooth shape in order to obtain the surface area of electrode.

In addition, each electrode slice 63a to 63e is electrically connected through public wiring 65.This public wiring 65 is exported in the capsule body, 67 is connected with power supply unit 6 through connecting up, and the electric current that is sent (voltage) is input to power supply unit 6.In addition, in this embodiment, before the gelatin film 64a to 64e of each layer dissolves fully; Because residual gelatin film makes the electrode area that exposes tail off, generated energy possibly reduce; Therefore through capacitor 66 is set, play a role aspect the power supply during this minimizing of stable supplying.

Shown in Figure 24 A to Figure 24 D, the stepped construction electrode 61,62 that constitutes like this is formed on the outside wall surface of capsule body 5.In Figure 24 A, on the outside wall surface that is formed with mask 68, form the 1st electrode slice 63a with homogeneous film thickness.The 1st electrode slice 63a forms the hole that is embedded in capsule body 5 upper sheds, and the part that in the hole, forms becomes the lead-out wire of not shown lower electrode.

Then, shown in Figure 24 B, vacate space, form the 1st gelatin film 64a as public wiring 65.The 1st gelatin film 64a for example can use the printing technology printing to form, and makes its sclerosis afterwards and forms.Below likewise form with the sequential cascade of Figure 24 C, Figure 24 D.

Of the back, formed stepped construction electrode 61,62 can be made in addition, and attaches on the capsule body 5, also can be formed directly on the outside wall surface.In addition, the thickness of the gelatin film of the adjustment the superiors is to begin generating from the moment that arrives intestinal.Through the adjustment of this gelatin film, capsule apparatus 1 can not contact at stepped construction electrode 61,62 and arrives duodenum or small intestinal under the situation of gastric juice, begins generating.

The capsule apparatus that is formed with stepped construction electrode 61,62 is when enteral flows down, and the electrode slice 63e of the superiors exposes, after beginning generating through during certain the time, the gelatin film 64d dissolving of lower floor.Electrode slice 63e come-up is separated with public wiring 65, and next electrode slice 63c exposes, and begins generating.The isolating electrode slice 63e solid content that is small pieces, be discharged to afterwards external, therefore not can owing to residual and to around exert an influence.

Afterwards; When gelatin film 64 dissolvings of the lower floor of the electrode slice that exposes 63, the electrode that expose this moment is separated, exposes new electrode surface successively; Therefore as above-mentioned shown in Figure 19; With append new electrode equal effect arranged, can prevent the minimizing of generated energy, obtain and the output of the approaching practical level of initial generated energy that generates electricity.

Figure 25 A to Figure 25 G be illustrate stepped construction electrode 61,62 manufacturing process one the example figure.In this example, show following example: form an electrode film (the for example carbon film of loading Pd), cut off and range upon range of and cambium layer stack structure electrode then bonds on the capsule body.Here, as an example with the combination of the carbon electrode 62 of aluminum electrode in above-mentioned the 7th embodiment 61 and loading Pd.

At first, shown in Figure 25 A, utilize known manufacturing technology, form the carbon thin film 63 of the big loading Pd opened suitable with the area of a plurality of electrodes.Then, shown in Figure 25 B, the mode that makes the two ends of carbon thin film 63 of loading Pd expose with retention position forms the gelatin film 64 of predetermined thickness.Afterwards, cut off, make electrode slice 63a to 63e in the position shown in the dotted line of Figure 25 A, and shown in Figure 25 C, multistage laminated.

Then, shown in Figure 25 D,, behind the surface of dissolving gelatin film 64a to 64d, it is solidified, make electrode slice 63a to 63e bonding each other under the state of the both end sides that sandwiched this range upon range of electrode slice 63a to 63e up and down.Afterwards, shown in Figure 25 E, use method such as plating to form public electrode 65 at two ends with the mode that comprises the electrode slice both end sides, and at the central cutout shown in the dotted line A.

And then, shown in Figure 25 F, electrode slice 63a to 63e being bonded on the basal electrode 68 with the mode that conducts, basal electrode 68 is formed on the capsule body 5, links to each other with power supply unit 6 with wiring 67.At this moment, being electrically connected to basal electrode 69 to major general's public wiring 65 gets final product.

Shown in Figure 25 G, after being installed with electrode slice 63a to 63e, form gelatin film 70, to cover this electrode slice 63a to 63e.As stated, the thickness of gelatin film 70 is after arriving duodenum or small intestinal under the situation that does not contact gastric juice, to begin the thickness that generates electricity immediately, can obtain by rule of thumb.

In addition, in the stepped construction electrode 61 that constitutes by aluminum, same manufacturing approach be can use, known quasiconductor film technique, for example vapor deposition or CVD also can be used.In addition, the gelatin film of this embodiment can also be substituted by other materials.For example, except gelatin, can also be with the thin film as material such as starch, agar or sugar, as long as to not injuries (nontoxic) of inspection object such as live bodies, and can or decompose in the inner dissolving of digestive appartus, then can especially restrictedly not use.

In addition, in this embodiment, be that electrode slice exposes from the upper strata, separated stepped construction electrode afterwards, but also can be not separated stepped construction electrode.That is, form the hierarchy that has connected each layer of electrode slice with a plurality of pillars respectively, fill between each layer, form the hierarchy electrode that gelatin exposes in the side with gelatin.Can be following structure also: at enteral, gelatin be from the side dissolving and the disappearance of hierarchy electrode, and the surface area of electrode increases along with effluxion.According to this hierarchy, the rear side of the electrode slice of each layer also is to help the electrode surface that generates electricity.

Each embodiment discussed above comprises following invention.

(1) a kind of power-supply system is characterized in that, this power-supply system possesses:

Capsule with acid proof watertight;

At least one electrode pair, it is arranged in capsule outer walls and shows out, is made up of two kinds of various parts with standard electrode potential difference;

Holding member (13,14), itself and said electrode pair separate this electrode pair of distance covering arbitrarily, keep said digestive appartus content; And

Power supply unit, it is configured in the said capsule, is connected with said electrode pair, takes out the power supply and the output of being sent,

This power-supply system constitutes the voltaic cell of said digestive appartus content as electrolyte solution.

Claims (17)

1. a power-supply system is characterized in that, this power-supply system possesses:

Capsule with acid proof watertight;

At least one electrode pair, it is provided in said capsular outside wall surface and exposes, and is made up of the different parts with standard electrode potential difference; And

Power supply unit, it is configured in the said capsule, is connected with said electrode pair, takes out and provide the power supply that is sent,

Said power-supply system constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte solution.

2. power-supply system according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

In said electrode pair,

The 1st electrode as negative electrode is formed by aluminum,

Form by in metal material that comprises platinum, gold, silver and carbon or the material with carbon element any one as anodic the 2nd electrode.

3. power-supply system according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

In said electrode pair,

Each electrode forms the shape of stripes with multistage protuberance line.

4. power-supply system according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

In said electrode pair,

Electrode by the situation that does not have the amphoteric metal of patience to form for said digestive appartus content under, have thin film to cover said electrode, said thin film forms any thickness by having deliquescent material for said digestive appartus content.

5. power-supply system according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

In said electrode pair,

Porous body thin film through keeping said digestive appartus content covers said electrode pair.

6. power-supply system according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

It is the aluminum electrode that said power-supply system has the 1st electrode as negative electrode, as anodic the 2nd electrode electrode pair that is catalyst-loaded carbon electrode,

The said electrode pair of dipping constitutes the Power Generation Section of generating electricity in the electrolyte solution that is made up of intestinal juice.

7. a power-supply system is characterized in that, this power-supply system possesses:

Capsule with acid proof watertight;

At least one electrode pair, it is provided in said capsular outside wall surface and exposes, and is made up of aluminum electrode and catalyst-loaded carbon electrode; And

Power supply unit, it is configured in the said capsule, is connected with said electrode pair, takes out and provide the power supply that is sent,

Said power-supply system constitutes the voltaic cell of digestive appartus content as electrolyte solution.

8. power-supply system according to claim 6 is characterized in that,

In said electrode pair, be the material that on conductive carbon material, has supported fine particle of noble metal as anodic catalyst-loaded carbon electrode.

9. power-supply system according to claim 8 is characterized in that,

The used material of the carbon electrode of said catalyst-loaded carbon electrode is the synthetic, graphite, carbon fiber, CNT, carbon nanohorn, these mixtures of material of electrical conductivity Carbon black, carbon black and amorphous carbon and these materials is spread in the material that is obtained on the base material with electric conductivity that is made up of carbon paper or carbon cloth any one.

10. power-supply system according to claim 8 is characterized in that,

Said fine particle of noble metal is any one in gold, platinum, palladium, rhodium, the silver.

11. according to claim 6 or 7 described power-supply systems, it is characterized in that,

Said catalyst-loaded carbon electrode by support the Pt carbon electrode, support the AuPt carbon electrode, support the Au carbon electrode, in loading Pd Pt carbon electrode and the loading Pd carbon electrode any one constitute.

12. according to claim 6 or 7 described power-supply systems, it is characterized in that,

Said aluminum electrode and said catalyst-loaded carbon electrode form by the stepped construction electrode that constitutes with lower component:

Range upon range of a plurality of electrode slices;

A plurality of folders are established film, and it is folded between the said electrode slice, is made up of the parts through said digestive appartus contents melting; And

Public wiring, its end to said a plurality of electrode slices is electrically connected,

Through the dissolving that the said folder that begins from the upper strata is established film, the electrode slice that exposes separates from said public wiring.

13. a medical capsule apparatus is characterized in that,

This medical capsule apparatus possesses:

Capsule with acid proof watertight;

Power-supply system, it possesses at least one electrode pair, and this at least one electrode pair is provided in capsule outer walls and shows out, is made up of two kinds of different parts with standard electrode potential difference, and the power supply that sends in the digestive appartus content is taken out and be provided to this power-supply system;

Camera lens, it makes the photography target imaging;

A plurality of light-emitting components, it is used for the illumination photography visual field;

Image sensor, it carries out opto-electronic conversion to the optical image that said camera lens became, and generates picture signal;

Handling part, it implements treatment for correcting to the picture signal that generates through said optical pickocff, converts the information signal that radio communication is used into; And

Antenna, it will be issued to the outside from the information signal of said handling part.

14. medical capsule apparatus according to claim 13 is characterized in that,

Said medical capsule apparatus also comprises:

The medicinal liquid cylinder, it stores medicinal liquid arbitrarily;

Inflator, it compresses gas takes in;

Nozzle, it sprays said medicinal liquid towards the outside;

The 1st valve, it is arranged on the passage that links said inflator and said medicinal liquid cylinder; And

The 2nd valve, it is arranged on the passage that links said medicinal liquid cylinder and said nozzle,

Said medical capsule apparatus has administration function portion, and this administration function portion is stored in medicinal liquid said medicinal liquid cylinder in by said gas from said nozzle ejection according to according to opening said the 1st valve, the 2nd valve the opportunity of the captured image of said image sensor.

15. medical capsule apparatus according to claim 14 is characterized in that,

Said medical capsule apparatus also has:

Inside is empty said medicinal liquid cylinder; And

Inside is the said inflator of vacuum state,

Said medical capsule apparatus has sampled functions portion; This sampled functions portion is according to opening said the 1st valve, the 2nd valve the opportunity of accordinging to the captured image of said image sensor; Utilize the negative pressure of the vacuum state of said inflator, will be present in the gas of said nozzle and any side or two sides among liquid two sides and introduce and be stored in the said cylinder.

16. a medical capsule apparatus is characterized in that,

This medical capsule apparatus possesses:

Capsule with acid proof watertight;

Power-supply system; It possesses electrode pair, and this electrode pair is provided in said capsular outside wall surface and exposes, and is made up of aluminum electrode and catalyst-loaded carbon electrode; This power-supply system is flooded said electrode pair in the electrolyte solution that is made up of intestinal juice, take out and provide the power supply that is sent;

Camera lens, it makes the photography target imaging;

A plurality of light-emitting components, it is used for the illumination photography visual field;

Image sensor, it carries out opto-electronic conversion to the optical image that said camera lens became, and generates picture signal;

Handling part, it implements treatment for correcting to the picture signal that generates through said optical pickocff, converts the information signal that radio communication is used into; And

Antenna, it will be issued to the outside from the information signal of said handling part.

17. medical capsule apparatus according to claim 16 is characterized in that,

Be provided in said aluminum electrode and the said catalyst-loaded carbon electrode that said capsular outside wall surface exposes and form by the stepped construction electrode that constitutes with lower component,

Begin range upon range of a plurality of electrode slices from said outside wall surface;

A plurality of folders are established film, and it is folded between the said electrode slice, by being constituted by the parts of said digestive appartus contents melting; And

Public wiring, it is used for an end of said a plurality of electrode slices is electrically connected, and the power supply that is sent is provided,

Through the dissolving that the said folder that begins from the upper strata is established film, the electrode slice that exposes separates from said public wiring.

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